Granite Belt Wineries

Nestled in the cool-climate highlands of northern New South Wales, the Granite Belt wineries offer a refreshing change from Australia's coastal wine regions. This is a land of ancient granite outcrops, crisp mountain air, and vineyards producing elegant reds and aromatic whites. For international travellers, it's a chance to taste wines you won't find elsewhere—like the region's signature Shiraz and Verdelho—while soaking up a landscape that feels a world away from the beach.

Highlights & What to See

• Sirromet Wines – A cellar door with sweeping views over the granite-strewn hills; try their award-winning Reserve wines.
• Ballandean Estate – The oldest winery in the region, known for its robust reds and a lovely vineyard café.
• Granite Belt Brewery – For a break from wine, sample craft beers made with local spring water.
• Stanthorpe – The main town, where you'll find artisan cheese, apple orchards, and the Stanthorpe Regional Art Gallery.
• Girraween National Park – Dramatic granite tors and wildflower displays; a perfect spot for a picnic with a bottle of local wine.
• Golden Grove Winery – A family-run cellar door with a relaxed atmosphere and excellent fortified wines.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow at least two days to truly appreciate the Granite Belt. Spend the first day visiting two or three cellar doors and exploring Stanthorpe's food scene. On the second day, combine a morning walk in Girraween National Park with a lunch at a winery like Ballandean Estate, then visit one or two more cellar doors in the afternoon. If you're keen on wine, consider a guided tour to take in the stories behind the vines.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Warwick – A historic town with beautiful sandstone buildings and the famous Warwick Rodeo.
• Boiling Pot Lookout – A dramatic viewpoint over the Granite Belt's rocky landscape.
• Passchendaele State Forest – Tranquil forest trails and birdwatching opportunities.
• Storm King Dam – A serene spot for kayaking, fishing, or a quiet afternoon picnic.
• Texas – A small border town with a quirky museum and the Macintyre River for canoeing.

Please check official sources for current details.